Conway Twitty, born Harold Lloyd Jenkins in 1933, was a seminal figure in both rock and roll and country music. While often associated with his later country career, his early success came as a rockabilly heartthrob. “It’s Only Make Believe,” released in 1958, remains his signature rock and roll hit, catapulting him to international stardom. The song showcased his distinctive vocal style, a blend of Elvis Presley’s swagger and a touch of operatic drama.
“It’s Only Make Believe” became an instant sensation, topping the Billboard Hot 100 chart and reaching #1 in countries across the globe. While Twitty never won a Grammy for this specific song (he would later receive several for his country work), its immense popularity earned him a gold record and solidified his place in rock and roll history. The song is considered a quintessential example of the teen idol sound of the late 1950s.
Lyrically, the song explores the torment of unrequited love. The narrator masks his true feelings for a girl, pretending indifference while secretly yearning for her affection. The “make believe” is a defense mechanism, a way to cope with the pain of knowing his love is likely not reciprocated. He hopes that by playing the part, he might eventually win her over. This theme of hidden longing resonated deeply with teenage audiences, who often experienced similar feelings of infatuation and awkwardness.
Public reaction to “It’s Only Make Believe” was overwhelmingly positive. Teenagers connected with the song’s vulnerable and relatable lyrics. Radio stations played it incessantly, further fueling its popularity. Critics also recognized its catchy melody and Twitty’s charismatic performance, acknowledging it as a defining song of its era. Even decades later, “It’s Only Make Believe” continues to be a beloved classic, a testament to its enduring appeal and Conway Twitty’s remarkable talent.